Process or product: awareness vs. aesthetics

A historic perspective on the roles of the patient and psychotherapist relative to creative expression clearly demonstrates an emphasis on content, on the projective interpretation of the product. The author challenges the emphasis on product rather than process, the educational 'shop-window' approach to achievers and the talented, as well as the negative effects of 'labeling', and the validity of some forms of projective psychological testing. Discussed is the influence exerted by the psychotherapist through Rogerian 'leakage'. In addition, techniques are suggested for expanding sensory awareness and synthesizing communication skills as a means of enhancing self-image and creative potential. The contention is that the more ways that a skill is synthesized, the more complete is the learning. The more complete the learning, the greater the sense of security. The more secure the individual, the more willing (s)he is to venture into other areas where risk of failure has been a deterrent.